“This Week in Galesburg History,” there asbestos for sale, women’s hosiery sales, and PE uniforms at JC Penney’s.
This is a look back at the history of Galesburg (and the world). What was going on 100 years ago, 75 years ago, 50 years ago, 25 years ago, and 10 years ago this week?
“This Week in Galesburg History” is available each Monday on the WGIL website and on Massey Basketball Blog.
100 Years Ago- 1926
If only we had known about the health impact of asbestos!
As early as 1898 there were voices expresses that asbestos was harmful. It was not until the 1970’s that asbestos was banned in residential use for types of insulation. By the 1980’s, there was a steep decline in insulation usage.
In the 1980’s, it was estimated that schools in the U.S. spent $1.4 billion in asbestos removal. One schools spent $2.1 million in removal. For the total abatement of a home, the cost could range from $5,000 to $30,000.
In March 2024 the EPA banned the last form of asbestos.
75 Years Ago- 1951
For females in the 1950’s, hose were pretty much required daily. The hose at the time lacked durability and stretchability. As a result, runs and snags were common in the hose.
The average homemaker went through about 12 hose per year, while professional women would go through about 20 hose per year.
In 1959 lycra in hose was invented that gave the hose more stretch and durability.
50 Years Ago- 1976
In the 1970’s, the concept of PE uniforms was standard in most U.S. schools. It insured students dressed in an appropriate manner and it was felt students would perform better.
25 Years Ago- 2001
Derrick Blackwell was one of Galesburg’s all-time great running backs, and GHS had many great running backs, dating back to the Kimbrough’s, Dean McKillip, Bob Jackson, and many more. This was Blackwell’s junior season.
Blackwell went onto play at Western Illinois University. In 2021 Derrick became the Streaks football coach.
10 Years Ago- 2016
Certain streets in Galesburg were designated to have bicycle lanes. One of those streets was Fremont St. The bikes lanes are on each side of the street, next to the curbs.
Although the bike lanes are marked as to which direction the bikers are to go, some bikers cannot read the symbols and go toward the traffic near them.
A pet peeve of mine is that so many walkers and bikers don’t seem to follow the standard rule when on roads. Pedestrians are to be on the left side of the road facing traffic. Bicycle rider on the ride side, going with traffic.
Galesburg bicycle traffic lanes are positive approach. And Galesburg bicycle routes around Lincoln Park and Lake Storey provide Galesburg with great recreational opportunities.
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